Ranking Every 2D Sonic Game From Worst To Best

2D or otherwise, Sonic has never been better than in 2017's Sonic Mania.

The original Sonic formula is done absolutely perfectly in this love letter to Sonic fans. The level design is absolutely incredible, combining remixed versions of some of Sonic's best classic zones with worthy new additions.

Also, the open-endedness of 2D Sonic levels hit its peak with this game, as not only is each level full of multiple routes and secrets for Sonic, but some that can only be accessed by Tails or Knuckles, which adds loads of replayability to the already stacked campaign. Plus the modern aspect ratio and framerates makes it easier than effer to explore this stages.

Plus, that's not even taking into account the gorgeous overall presentation the game has to offer, with the perfect blend of retro and modern visuals, or the utterly impeccable soundtrack. Finally, whereas Sonic 2 completely changed the game with the spin dash, Sonic Mania added the drop dash, another mechanic so simple, yet so invaluable.

Sonic's certainly had a bumpy road over the last few decades, but this game proved once and for all that the series hasn't forgotten its influential roots and can still innovate when it needs to.

Despite their age, some of the classic Sonic titles have endured for years and years. And given how incredible Sonic Mania is, you can bet we'll be playing it for just as long, if not, longer.